By Niamh Dwyer, Chairperson of the Kerry Branch of Guidance Counsellors

Have you or someone you support faced significant challenges which have impacted on your experience to access education and training opportunities?

If so, I highly recommend that you check out the services offered by the National Learning Network (NLN) centres nationwide? NLN provides education, training and specialist support to students and adults with extra support needs.

Over the years I have seen students who have faced big challenges personally, educationally and socially go on to develop their skills and self-confidence by completing courses which are suited to their interests at a pace which suits their learning needs. NLN offer courses which are designed to help build student’s confidence, knowledge, assertiveness, and to give them independent living skills. Most students progress onto further education or employment.

Who are these courses for?

NLN provides training and specialist support to young people and adults who, for a variety of reasons, may find it difficult to gain employment or need extra support before progressing in education. This includes young people who may not want to, or be equipped to, access traditional post-school pathways. Regardless of circumstances, be it long-term unemployment, physical or mental illness, disability or extra support needs, the NLN offers a welcoming and supportive environment for students from the age of 16 to 65.

NLN has 50 centres across Ireland which offer courses in a welcoming environment for participants. There are 70 programmes available at a mix of levels and are accredited by QQI, City and Guilds and other recognised awarding bodies. The courses vary from centre to centre but cover multiple options such as business, catering, computers, horticulture, art and design, wellness, employability skills and much more.
There really is something for everyone! The courses provide relevant practical experience gained in meaningful work placement and classroom-based learning.

You can check out the full list on - https://rehab.ie/national-learning-network/find-a-course/our-courses/.

Key aspects of the NLN education and training programmes include:

* Continuous enrolment (students can start any time)
* Small class sizes
* Personalised learning
* Free courses – all courses are funded by the HSE or the local ETB
* Students keep any social welfare payments they are entitled to
* Person-centred approach where every course is tailored to the student’s needs and delivered at their pace
* On-site psychologist to support student’s well-being and learning goals
* Course sampling – many students try a course out before committing
* Job-seeking skills – CV writing and interview techniques

NLN are running a national Open Day this Wednesday (August 24) from 11am to 1pm. Potential students, adults and parents are invited to drop into any of the their centres nationwide to chat to staff and see the wide range of diverse courses available. For more details on your local NLN centre and on how to apply check out www.nln.ie, email info@nln.ie and follow on @NLNireland on social media platforms. It will be the start of an exciting journey. National Learning Network Kerry are based in Clash Industrial Estate, Tralee and can be contacted on tralee@nln.ie or 066 712 2533.

Niamh Dwyer is a Guidance Counsellor in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore, and Chairperson of the Kerry Branch of Guidance Counsellors. She is also a Career Consultant - See www.mycareerplan.ie or follow @mycareerplan on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.